Moving to a new country for education can be a daunting yet rewarding experience. For many international students, the UK stands out as a top destination, offering world-renowned institutions and diverse cultural experiences. But what does it take to transition smoothly and thrive in this new environment? Here, I share my personal experiences and strategies for success.

I’m Sachintha Abeyrathne, a student from Sri Lanka, currently studying Business Information Systems BSc at the prestigious University of Westminster. The UK’s reputation for high academic standards and innovative research drew me here. If anyone asks me why the University of Westminster? It is my second home. Choosing the University of Westminster was undoubtedly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From day one, the university embraced me with open arms. The diverse student body, supportive faculty, and vibrant campus community made me feel at home in a foreign land. Beyond its world-class facilities and resources, what truly sets this university apart is its people – professors who inspire, classmates who become lifelong friends, and staff who go above and beyond. I step into the University 2022 September with a mission to prepare for a global career.

No family and no prior experience with international travel. Just an 18-year-old with a dream and a one-way ticket to the United Kingdom. The flight from Sri Lanka to the UK was not just my first time on an aeroplane; it was a leap of faith into the unknown. I believe the initial mix of emotions, excitement, curiosity, and a touch of nervousness was the perfect recipe for a transformative year.

With great honour, I would like to mention the university’s dedicated career services team, which played a pivotal role in my professional development journey. They offered personalised guidance, mock interviews, and networking events with potential employers. Accessing these resources helped me refine my job search strategy and secure meaningful internships aligned with my career goals. With an ecstatic mind, I would like to inform you all that I was awarded as an Overall Winner of the Platinum Level of Westminster Employability Awards Ceremony,2024.which was another milestone achievement in my Student Life.

I proudly share my experience in which I was given the opportunity to participate and successfully complete both the UK 2023 & Mumbai Program 2024, which was organised by The Westminster Working Cultures (WWC) program, which was a revelation. It wasn’t just a week of workshops and seminars; it was a journey into the heart of the UK’s professional landscape. Meeting seasoned professionals, understanding the nuances of the job market, and honing networking skills were invaluable takeaways. WWC Program helped me boost, aspire higher, and chase my career dreams.

Key Learnings and Advice

From these experiences, several key learnings emerged. One crucial aspect is understanding the importance of networking and leveraging university resources. Networking can be daunting, especially in a new country. However, it’s an essential skill for job hunting. I suggest starting by attending university events and joining student societies related to your field. These platforms are great for meeting like-minded individuals and industry professionals. Don’t be afraid to reach out on LinkedIn or attend industry seminars. Even if you don’t know where to start, taking the first step is important. The more people you connect with, the more opportunities you’ll find. Building a network takes time, but it’s worth the effort.

My key advice is to start now, be genuine and focus on building connections. For someone who doesn’t know where to start, I recommend attending events from both Universities and Industry Organizations, creating & Optimise LinkedIn profile, and finally, seeking guidance from the University Careers team, University Lecturers, and Industry Professionals would help anyone to network effectively and transform their journey both personally and professionally.

Looking back, I wish I had been more proactive in seeking internships early on. Getting hands-on experience is crucial. It’s something I would advise every international student to prioritise. Internships provide practical experience and a chance to build professional connections. Always grab every opportunity available; you never know which will be the game-changer.

The journey of an international student in the UK is filled with both challenges and opportunities. I believe that I am successfully navigating this transition by leveraging university resources, adapting to new cultural norms, and proactively building a network. It’s all about being genuine, open to new experiences and willing to step out of your comfort zone. Grab each and every opportunity available, and build your personal brand.

I’m grateful for all the support that the University has offered me. Heartfelt thanks to my parents, university lecturers, career consultants, and mentors for all the unwavering support rendered to me.

Invitation to Listen

Additionally, I’m thrilled to announce that I have joined the Global Ambition series on “Flip It,” an innovative new podcast created by students for students and brought to you by the University of Westminster’s Career and Employability Service. This episode provides a unique platform for international and home students where we exchange our perspectives. I warmly invite all fellow students to tune in to the latest episode and join the conversation.

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Big thanks to Sachintha for writing this insightful and inspiring blog!

Sachintha Abeyratnne – BSc. Business Information Systems

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sachinthaabeyrathne/  | Website: https://www.sachinthaabeyrathne.com/

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